Wenger expects Man City to rally after Real Madrid loss

Arsene Wenger. Photo credit: Nick Potts/PA wire

Friday, September 21, 2012
9:00 AM

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger thinks Manchester City will change their approach after their 3-2 Champions League defeat to Real Madrid when they face the Gunners on Sunday.

Roberto Mancini’s side were 2-1 up with five minutes remaining but conceded twice at the death as Real Madrid secured an unlikely win.

Wenger admits he was surprised by City’s collapse but expects a very difficult game at the Etihad Stadium.

“I was surprised by what happened because I heard they were 2-1 up and suddenly they lost 3-2,” he told Arsenal’s official website.

“In the Champions League the last five minutes are very important.

“For the rest [of the match] they played a game that was based on defending well and counter-attacking, so it could be a little bit different when they play against us, tactically.”

The Arsenal boss says confidence is high in the Gunners’ camp and has urged his side to show what they can do.

“We know it’s a big test. We go there in a very good, positive mind.

“We have a good opportunity to show how good we are and how strong we are. So let’s take it.”